Unified platform, salary structure planned for special athletes

In a move aimed at reshaping the landscape of inclusive sports, the government of Bangladesh on Monday unveiled plans to bring athletes with disabilities under a structured salary framework and gradually introduce a national league dedicated to them.

The announcement came during a consultative meeting at the National Sports Council conference room on Monday, where organisations run by persons with disabilities engaged in dialogue with policymakers. 

State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque led the discussion as chief guest, alongside State Minister for Health and Family Welfare MA Muhith.

Framing the initiative as part of a broader reform agenda, Aminul said the government wants to move beyond recognition of achievements toward structural support. “Our athletes with special needs continue to bring pride for the nation at home and abroad. Now we must ensure their success is backed by institutional and financial security,” he remarked.

He stressed that inclusive sports should no longer operate on the margins. “We are working to bring all disability sports bodies under a unified platform. Like mainstream disciplines, a national league will be introduced in phases,” he said.

The state minister also acknowledged longstanding financial constraints within disability sports organisations.

According to him, targeted measures will be taken to address funding gaps, alongside drafting a monthly salary structure for both general and differently-abled athletes.

Describing sports as a viable profession for the future, he pledged improved access to modern facilities and specialised equipment, signaling what could be a transformative chapter for inclusive athletics in the country.